If you want to learn more, check out my blog post where I explain how I taught my students to build their own concept maps.

scientistsinthemaking.com/concept-maps...

I do this when it comes to the gym. There are days I don't want to go. But then I tell myself to keep it easy and only do half the workouts. So I still go and only do half. Other times, I go like "Eh. I'm already here. Might as well go all out." It keeps me consistent! It's really good advice.

7. If you want to learn more about this system, check out my blog post where I explain in more detail how to implement these practices:

scientistsinthemaking.com/teaching-org...

6. Pair this with an "Absent Binder” (a system where students who miss class can quickly access missing handouts) and you no longer have to worry about catching students up. They can use the Table of Contents (which is also in the binder) to see what they are missing.

5. This makes it easy for students to find the resources they need to complete assignments. This frees up working memory which can then be used to understand the lesson.

4. In my classroom, we have the Two-Pocket Folder System. The left pocket keeps the essential resources (for my class: calendars, periodic table, hall passes). The right pocket keeps the classwork and homework, organized with a “Table of Contents.”

3. To solve this issue, you need to teach and incorporate organizational skills into your daily lessons. A simple, structured system can work wonders.

2. Disorganization forces students to waste a lot of mental energy searching for materials and assignments. This takes up space in their working memory (which is already limited) and leaves little left over to understand the actual lesson.

1. Imagine trying to cook in a messy kitchen. You spend more time searching for tools and ingredients than actual cooking. This makes the process stressful and irritating. The same thing happens in a classroom when students are disorganized.

6. Want to learn more? Check out this blog post for detailed tips on how to use mini whiteboards effectively: scientistsinthemaking.com/engage-asses...

5. For students, this feedback is equally valuable. Seeing their own mistakes immediately helps them learn more effectively. Instead of waiting for a graded assignment, they can correct errors while the content is still fresh in their minds.

4. This real-time feedback allows you to adjust your instruction on the spot. For example, if a good number of students shows a common misunderstanding, you can pause to reteach or clarify before moving forward.

3. One of the most powerful features of mini whiteboards is how they instantly make student thinking visible. When students write their answers and hold up their boards, you can quickly identify who understands the material and who needs additional support.

2. This also shifts the focus from “who’s brave enough to answer” to “what everyone is thinking.” Students no longer feel pressure to compete for attention or worry about public mistakes. Instead, they engage in low-stakes practice.